When designing a custom makeup brush set with Supings, the focus is often on the bristles. However, the handle is what gives the brush its weight, balance, and aesthetic identity.
The choice of handle material impacts your manufacturing cost, your brand’s “vibe,” and the product’s longevity. Here is a breakdown of the most popular materials we process.
Wood Handles: The Classic Choice
Wood is the most traditional material. It feels warm to the touch and offers a classic weight.
- Birch Wood: The industry standard. It is hard, durable, and takes paint/lacquer very well.
- Bamboo: Excellent for eco-friendly/green beauty brands. It has a distinct grain and is rapidly renewable.
- Walnut/Ebony: Used for ultra-luxury sets. These are heavy, expensive, and usually left with a matte finish to show the natural grain.
Note: Wood handles are painted with multiple layers (primer + color + topcoat) to prevent water damage.
Plastic / Resin Handles: The Modern & Durable Choice
Plastic handles are rapidly gaining popularity for professional lines.
- ABS Plastic: Very durable and resistant to water. Unlike wood, it will never swell or crack if left soaking in a sink.
- Acrylic: clear or colored transparent handles. These look very high-end and modern, often used for “crystal” style brushes.
- Pricing: Mold costs for plastic can be high upfront, but the unit price is low for high-volume orders.
- Metal Handles: The Heavyweights
Aluminum or Electroplated handles offer a cool-to-the-touch feel and significant weight. They scream “luxury.” However, they are the most expensive option and can be heavy for a makeup artist to hold for hours.
The Ferrule Connection
The handle connects to the bristles via the Ferrule.
- Aluminum: Lightweight and cost-effective.
- Copper: The premium choice. It is harder, shinier, and more resistant to corrosion than aluminum. At Supings, we recommend copper ferrules for high-end foundation and powder brushes to ensure the head remains secure.
Which Should You Choose?
For Eco-Brands: Bamboo or unvarnished Birch.
For Pro MUA Brands: ABS Plastic (for hygiene and durability) or classic painted Wood.
For Luxury Gifting: Electroplated metal or heavy Walnut wood.
FAQ
Q: Which handle material is the cheapest?
- A: Standard plastic (PP) or simple painted birch wood are generally the most cost-effective.
Q: Does wood swell if washed?
- A: If the paint seal is cracked or if soaked for too long, yes. This is why we apply waterproof primer. Plastic handles do not have this issue.
Q: Can I get a custom shape for my brush handle?
- A: Yes. For plastic, we open a new mold. For wood, we configure the lathe to your specific dimensions.
Q: What is a “PCR” handle?
- A: PCR stands for Post-Consumer Recycled plastic. It is a sustainable option made from recycled waste.
Q: What is the difference between an aluminum and copper ferrule?
- A: Copper is stronger and less likely to deform under pressure. It also has a higher shine and feels more premium/heavy.
Q: Can you print my logo on wooden handles?
- A: Yes, we use pad printing or hot stamping (foil) for logos on wood. Laser engraving is also an option for a natural look.
Q: Are bamboo handles waterproof?
- A: Bamboo is naturally water-resistant, but we still treat it to ensure longevity in humid bathroom environments.
Q: What is the “Soft Touch” finish?
- A: It is a rubberized coating spray applied to plastic or wood handles to give them a matte, velvety feel.
Q: How do I choose the handle length?
- A: “Travel sets” usually have shorter handles (12-14cm). Professional sets usually have longer handles (16-19cm) for better balance.
Q: Can Supings match a specific Pantone color for the handle?
- A: Yes, we can paint wood or inject plastic in any specific Pantone shade you provide.
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